Parks & Travel

Feeling stressed and guilty about taking time off? You're not alone! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin offers a refreshing perspective, reframing time off as a sacred act of self-compassion.

Shelley dives into the impacts of overscheduling and the often-overlooked value of spontaneity, revealing the crucial connection between our health and taking a break. She also highlights the profound healing qualities of being out in nature and taking a vacation, emphasizing their role in our well-being. She tackles the common struggle of saying no, the time-consuming nature of social media, and the urgent need to re-evaluate work-life balance.

Discover the power of mindfulness, how to choose joy over guilt, and the "filters" we apply to our lives. Ultimately, Shelley empowers listeners to set boundaries for well-being and rediscover joy.

Key Takeaways:

Resources:

- Get her book What Do You Bring to the Table? on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/What-You-Bring-Table-Inspirational/dp/1087932106 

- Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley: New episodes drop every first Sunday: https://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/ 

This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life,” “Vacation Station,” and “Parks & Travel” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrate Summer and Parks & Recreation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" podcast! Explore the attractions, outdoor adventures, and vibrant communities of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and the Giant Sequoia National Monument.

From towering sequoias and family-friendly events to rich agricultural heritage, historical landmarks, art and entertainment, shopping and dining, this conversation highlights everything you need to plan the ultimate summer getaway. 

Featured Guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council:

🎒 Download the free Tulare County Visitor Guide and plan your getaway: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 

🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the podcast: https://discover-the-sequoias.podbean.com/ 

📡 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station," and "Big Daily Blend" channels. Subscribe to the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast features a follow-up conversation with musician and composer Rachel Mari Kimber, the National Parks Arts Foundation’s Fall 2024 Artist-in-Residence at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona.

Rachel discusses her new single, “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed,” a soulful piece inspired by the desert landscapes and experiences during her residency. She shares insights into her creative process, the emotional and healing power of music, and how nature—especially the desert—continues to shape her artistry. The conversation explores themes of harmony, community, and the personal connections music evokes.

Rachel also opens up about upcoming projects including an ambient album and a sound healing release, and talks about her work with Black Forest Society and Happy Joy Harmony.

🎵 “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed” is available on all major music platforms including Spotify, Amazon, YouTube, and CD Baby.

🎧 Listen to earlier parts of Rachel’s residency journey:

🌐 More about Rachel Mari Kimber:

🎨 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies:

Get ready to plan your ultimate summer getaway with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast! From outdoor thrills and brewery hopping to cultural festivals and iconic attractions, this fun and informative conversation highlights over ten unforgettable experiences to enjoy during the summer season in Asheville, North Carolina.

Co-hosted by Steve & Karen Wilson—aka “Mr & Mrs Wild” and innkeepers of the beautifully restored Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in the Montford Historic District—this lively episode dives into:

🛏️ Learn more about Steve & Karen Wilson and their beautiful B&B: www.lion-rose.com 

🎙️ More Summer-Fun Asheville Episodes to Enjoy:

🗓️ "Adventures in Asheville" airs every 1st Tuesday of the month.

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s World of Art podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick shares the remarkable life and legacy of Fanny Adele Watson (1873–1947), a pioneering American artist whose work—especially her landscapes and depictions of national parks—stood out in a male-dominated art world.

The conversation explores Watson’s unique artistic voice, her influences, and the historical context of her career. Victoria also emphasizes the importance of preserving art and recognizing the vital contributions of women artists throughout history, as well as how travel and natural beauty have inspired generations of painters.

🖼️ Read Victoria’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-life-and-legacy-of-artist-fanny-adele-watson-1873-1947/ 

🔗 More to Explore:

📣 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Women Making History and Toast to The Arts podcast channels. Discover more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Join us on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” podcast as travel writer Terri Guthrie takes us to Ridgeland, Mississippi—a charming destination full of cultural treasures, scenic beauty, and heartfelt community spirit.

From upscale shopping at The Renaissance with its European-style design to the serene Natchez Trace Parkway perfect for scenic drives and cycling, Ridgeland offers something for every traveler. Terri also shares her thrilling experience of soaring in a 1929 biplane with Vintage Air Tours, plus outdoor adventures like boating, fishing, and hiking.

The episode also explores the local culinary scene and highlights The Lily Pad, a community-driven restaurant that empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities. It's a shining example of how Ridgeland blends hospitality with purpose.

Whether you're planning a road trip or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is your guide to why Ridgeland is one of Mississippi’s best-kept secrets.

Check out Terri's “Road Trip to Ridgeland” article, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/road-trip-to-ridgeland-on-the-natchez-trace-in-mississippi/ 

📅 NEW! “Travel with Terri” is now a WEEKLY podcast—tune in every Tuesday at 9 AM CT!

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham returns to share her recent experiences in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi. From the powerful stories behind the Civil War to the vibrant arts and culinary scenes, Susan highlights what makes this Southern city such a meaningful and engaging destination.

The conversation dives into the impact of the Civil War on Vicksburg, the importance of the Vicksburg National Military Park, and the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and modern charm.

📖 Read Susan’s article:

Susan Lanier-Graham is an experienced journalist, editor, storyteller, and author with a passion for purposeful travel and meaningful connection. Along with being the managing editor of an Arizona lifestyle publication, and an editor and contributor to Newsweek, Susan is the publisher and founder of Wander With Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/ 

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 

🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 

🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Parks  & Travel," and "Way Back When" Channels. Check out our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In celebration of World Oceans Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Jo Goes Everywhere!" travel podcast with writer and photographer Jo Clark explores the coastal wonders of Georgetown County, South Carolina, home to Winyah Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and two incredible natural and historic treasures: Hobcaw Barony and the Yawkey Wildlife Center.

Located in the greater Myrtle Beach area, these lands reflect a unique convergence of history, nature, and conservation. Learn about the legacy of Belle Baruch, the story of Francis Marion “The Swamp Fox,” and how local agriculture like Carolina Gold Rice shaped the region. Dive into discussions about the importance of estuaries and wetlands, endangered bird recovery, and the efforts to preserve biodiversity along the coast.

This episode honors the critical role that coastal ecosystems and conservation initiatives play in protecting our oceans and planet.

📖 Read Jo's article about the region:

🎧 Learn more about Belle Baruch:

🗓️ “Jo Goes Everywhere!” airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST on Big Blend Radio. Listen & Subscribe:

🌍 Follow Jo’s travels:

🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend channels:

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Special guest Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce joins the show to talk about seasonal produce, healthy snacks, and gourmet goodies perfect for a memorable summer picnic.

In this lively conversation, Linda and Robert share their dream picnic companions and destinations, essential food ideas, and healthy snack options. They explore creative recipes, dessert ideas to sweeten your spread, and fun picnic themes to take your gathering to the next level. Plus, hear about the latest trends in summer produce and the importance of clean picnicking practices.

🔗 Read Linda’s article: “The Ultimate Summer Picnic”

🔗 Listen to Linda Kissam’s travel and food adventures on Big Blend Radio: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures:

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend’s "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.Explore more shows on Big Blend Radio’s Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates Great Outdoors Month with Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). NPAF leads the way in establishing unique, month-long artist-in-residence programs in national parks across the country.

In this inspiring conversation, Tanya shares how art acts as a catalyst for change and preservation, and how artists help deepen the cultural and emotional value of our public lands. The discussion touches on the legacy of art in parks, community engagement, accessibility, and the importance of integrating creativity into conservation efforts to ensure these natural treasures are cherished by future generations.

🔗 Learn more and apply: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network’s "Toast to The Arts," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Shows. 📲 Subscribe: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork